RHOMBSPAR Meaning and
Definition
-
Rhombspar, also known as rhomb spar, is a term used in mineralogy to describe a particular type of crystalline structure exhibited by certain gemstones and minerals. It refers to a rhombohedral habit or appearance typically observed in the formation of crystals.
The term "rhombspar" can also be used to describe a specific mineral species, which possesses this characteristic rhombohedral crystal structure. Some common examples of minerals that exhibit rhombspar include calcite and dolomite. These minerals are composed mainly of calcium carbonate or calcium magnesium carbonate, respectively.
Crystals with a rhombspar structure feature faces that are inclined to each other and appear as rhomboidal shapes when viewed under a microscope or macroscopically. The angles between these faces are usually close to 90 degrees but may deviate slightly due to natural variations in crystal growth.
This distinctive crystal habit is typically a result of the internal arrangement of atoms within the mineral's lattice structure. The rhombspar structure is often related to the trigonal crystal system, in which the crystallographic axes are of equal length and intersect at 60 degrees.
Geologists and mineralogists utilize the term "rhombspar" to describe the crystal habit of certain minerals, aiding in their identification and classification. The utilization of this term enhances the understanding of mineral formations and their physical properties, contributing to the field of mineralogy and its applications in various scientific disciplines.
-
A variety of dolomite or crystallised magnesian limestone.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for RHOMBSPAR
- ehombspar
- dhombspar
- fhombspar
- thombspar
- 5hombspar
- 4hombspar
- rgombspar
- rbombspar
- rnombspar
- rjombspar
- ruombspar
- ryombspar
- rhimbspar
- rhkmbspar
- rhlmbspar
- rhpmbspar
- rh0mbspar
- rh9mbspar
- rhonbspar
- rhokbspar
Etymology of RHOMBSPAR
The word "rhombspar" has an interesting etymology. It is derived from two separate elements: "rhomb" and "spar".
The term "rhomb" originates from the Greek word "rhombos", meaning "a rhombus", which is a quadrilateral with equal sides but non-right angles. Over time, "rhomb" was adopted into English to describe this geometric shape. In the context of "rhombspar", "rhomb" refers to the shape of the crystal structure found in certain minerals.
The second element, "spar", stems from the Old English word "spær", which means "a non-metallic mineral". It is used to describe a group of minerals that possess a non-metallic luster and have generally similar physical properties. Common examples of spar minerals include feldspar and calcite.
